Poke Japanese Restaurant: Authentic Japanese Cuisine on the Upper East Side

Poke Japanese Restaurant Introduce

Welcome to Poke Japanese Restaurant, a beloved spot for authentic Japanese cuisine nestled in the heart of the Upper East Side. For those of us in New York City who appreciate high-quality, fresh sushi and traditional Japanese dishes, this restaurant is a local gem worth discovering. From the moment you approach its doors, it's clear that this is a popular place, often bustling with diners. As an Asian-owned business, Poke Japanese Restaurant brings a dedication to authenticity and flavor that shines through in its extensive menu. The atmosphere is a perfect blend of casual and cozy, making it an ideal setting for a relaxed dinner with family or a quiet meal for one.

Poke Japanese Restaurant prides itself on its broad range of offerings, catering to both sushi connoisseurs and those looking for classic Japanese comfort food. The menu features an impressive selection of sushi and sashimi, along with an array of kitchen appetizers and signature rolls. While it can be busy and there's often a wait, the friendly and efficient service makes the experience worthwhile. The staff are known for their kindness and attention to detail, which adds to the overall pleasant dining experience. This restaurant is a testament to the fact that great food and good service can create a loyal following, even in a city with endless dining options.

Poke Japanese Restaurant is located at 343 E 85th St, New York, NY 10028, placing it firmly within the vibrant Upper East Side neighborhood. Its position on a side street off a major avenue provides a slightly more intimate and cozy feel, while still being easily accessible. The restaurant is a short walk from various subway and bus stops, making it convenient for anyone in the city to visit. The area is bustling with activity, yet the restaurant maintains a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere.

The restaurant is committed to accessibility, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating. While public parking can be a challenge in this part of Manhattan, there is a wheelchair-accessible parking lot nearby, which is a helpful feature for those with mobility concerns. The inclusive design ensures that all guests can enjoy their dining experience without any hassle. The restaurant also has a gender-neutral restroom, further highlighting its welcoming and modern approach to hospitality.

Poke Japanese Restaurant offers a variety of services to meet the needs of its diverse clientele.

Dine-in: Enjoy a meal in the casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere. The restaurant offers both table service and counter service, providing different dining experiences.
Takeout: For a delicious meal at home, the restaurant provides a convenient takeout service. Simply call ahead and pick up your order.
Delivery: In addition to takeout, Poke Japanese Restaurant offers both regular and "no-contact" delivery options, allowing you to enjoy their food from the comfort of your own home.
Outdoor Seating: During warmer months, you can enjoy your meal on the outdoor patio. Dogs are allowed in this area, making it a great option for pet owners.
Bar Onsite: The restaurant features a bar, where you can enjoy a variety of beverages with your meal.

Poke Japanese Restaurant stands out with several key features and highlights that contribute to its popularity.

Extensive Menu: The menu is vast, offering a huge selection of appetizers, sushi, sashimi, rolls, and more. From classics like Tuna Tartar and Shumai to unique creations like the "Spicy Toro & Tempura Flakes Roll" and "Larly Roll," there is something for every palate.
Fresh and Healthy Options: The restaurant offers a variety of healthy options, including fresh sashimi, vegetarian dishes, and small plates. The emphasis is on quality ingredients that are both delicious and good for you.
Family-Friendly and Kids' Menu: With a casual atmosphere and a dedicated kids' menu, Poke Japanese Restaurant is a great choice for family dinners.
Trendy and Cozy Atmosphere: The interior is a blend of trendy and cozy, making it a great spot for a casual dinner or a special night out. The ambiance is inviting and relaxing.
Friendly Service: Customer reviews often highlight the friendly and appreciative staff who contribute to a positive dining experience. This level of service is highly valued in the competitive NYC dining scene.
Popular with Locals: The fact that the restaurant is "always packed" speaks to its popularity and the loyalty of its local customers. A consistent crowd is a good sign of quality and a great dining experience.

For more information or to place an order, you can contact Poke Japanese Restaurant using the information below.

Address: 343 E 85th St, New York, NY 10028

Phone: (212) 249-0569

When you’re in the Upper East Side and looking for a Japanese restaurant, Poke is a place you should definitely consider. While it’s important to note that it is a cash-only establishment, the overall value and quality of the experience are what make it worth choosing. The vast menu provides an incredible array of choices, ensuring that everyone in your group will find something they love. From the classic sushi and sashimi platters to the more creative special rolls like the "Good Time" and "Manhattan" rolls, the options are endless. The appetizers from both the kitchen and the sushi bar are excellent ways to start your meal, with fan favorites like Crispy Calamari and Spicy Kani Salad.

The atmosphere is perfect for a casual, relaxing meal, and the friendly service adds a personal touch that makes you feel welcome. While some critics may find certain flavors or textures to be milder than expected, the fresh ingredients and careful preparation are consistently praised. The ability to dine both indoors and outdoors, along with takeout and delivery options, provides great flexibility. It’s a great spot for a special treat or a satisfying meal on any given day. For a truly authentic and enjoyable Japanese dining experience in a cozy Upper East Side setting, Poke Japanese Restaurant is a clear choice.

Poke Japanese Restaurant Food & drink

Appetizers From Sushi Bar ( 2024 updated)
Oshinko (Appetizers) $5.00
Spicy Kani Salad (Appetizers) $11.00
Spicy Kani with Cucumber, Tobiko & Sesame seeds
Tuna or Yellow Tail Tartar (Appetizers) $12.00
Sunrise Island (Appetizers) $13.00
Tuna Tartar on Top of Avocado, Tobiko, Spicy Sauce on Top
Tuna Tataki (Appetizers) $14.00
Slightly Seared Tuna covered with Black Pepper in a Homemade Ponzu sauce
Eel Sashimi (4 Piece) Appetizers $16.00
(4 Pieces)
Fluke Usuzukuri (Appetizers) $16.00
Fluke Carpaccio in a Homemade Ponzu Sauce
King Crab Su (Appetizers) $22.00
King crab Avocado Wrapped in Cucumber Served with Ponzu Sauce
Special Toro Tartar (Appetizers) $23.00
Poke Style (Toro) Tataki (Appetizers) $25.00
Seared Toro , Cut into Bite Size

Appetizers From Kitchen
Edamame (Appetizers) $7.00
Shumai (Appetizers) $8.00
Steamed Shrimp Dumplings
Gyoza (Appetizers) $9.00
Pan Fried Pork Dumplings
Vegetable Gyoza (Appetizers) $9.00
Pan Fried Vegetable Dumplings
Agedashi Tofu (Appetizers) $10.00
Crispy Tofu in a Japanese Fish Broth
Tender & Spicy Chicken Strips (Appetizers) $11.00
Crispy Calamari (Appetizers) $12.00
Crispy Calamari Ring Served with Scarlet Sauce
Sautéed Mushrooms (Appetizers) $13.00
A Combination of Enoki, Shiitake, and Eringi Mushrooms Sautéed in Butter & Garlic Soy Sauce
Homemade Tofu Uni (Appetizers) $14.00
Made from Soybean Milk, Served with Fresh Uni and Fish Broth
Grilled Mussels (Appetizers) $15.00
Five Broiled Mussels in a Seared Creamy Sauce & Tobiko
Hamachi-Kama (Appetizers) $16.00
Exquisite Broiled Yellow Tail Collar Served with Homemade Sauce
Black Cod (Appetizers) $19.00
Marinated Over 48 Hours in a Homemade Miso Paste, Serve Broiled
Rock Shrimp (Appetizers) $19.00
Served with Homemade Yuzu Sauce
Steak Appetizer $20.00
4 Oz size, Grilled with Japanese Sauce and Salad on the Side
Grilled Mackerel (Appetizers) $13.00
Marinated in Japanese Vinegar and Broiled
Shrimp Pirikara (Appetizers) $17.00
Five Succulent Pieces of Tiger Shrimp Sautéed in Spicy Lemon Sauce
Tuna Pizza (Appetizers) $17.00
Tortilla Scallion Crust Topped with Mozzarella and Fresh Tuna

Starters
Miso Soup $5.00
Served with Bean Curd, Seaweed, Tofu and Scallion
Spicy Miso Soup $6.50
Served with Seaweed, Tofu, and Shiitake Mushrooms
Wakame (Seaweed Salad) $7.00
Tako (Octopus)Salad $10.00
Green Mixed Salad $7.00
Garden Salad with Tomato & Cucumber Homemade Ginger Dressing or Miso Dressing
Avocado Salad $10.00
Garden Salad with Tomato & Cucumber, Topped with Avocado. Homemade Ginger Dressing or Miso Dressing
Tofu Salad $10.00
Garden Salad with Tomato & Cucumber, Topped with Tofu. Homemade Ginger Dressing or Miso Dressing
Tuna Salad $13.50
Garden Salad with Tomato & Cucumber, Topped with Fresh Tuna. Homemade Ginger Dressing or Miso Dressing
Tuna Avocado Salad $16.50
Garden Salad with Tomato & Cucumber, topped with Fresh Tuna & Avocado. Homemade Ginger Dressing or Miso Dressing
Tempura Asparagus $6.00
3 pieces per order
Tempura Broccoli $6.00
3 pieces per order
Tempura Sweet Potato $6.00
3 pieces per order
Tempura Pumpkin $6.00
3 pieces per order
Tempura Shrimp $6.00
3 pieces per order
Vegetable Tempura selection $13.00
Mix of Broccoli, Sweet Potatos, and Shitaki Mushrooms…
Soft Shell Crab & Vegetable Tempura $19.00
Whole Piece of Soft Shell Crab & Mix of Veggies

Sushi & Sashimi (Price per Piece)
Kani (crab stick) $3.25
Tako (Octopus) $3.75
Ebi (Shrimp) $3.75
Hokkigai (Red Clam) $3.75
Tobiko (Flying-Fish Roe) $4.00
Saba (Mackerel) $4.00
Fluke $4.00
Unagi (Fresh Water Eel) $4.50
Sake (Salmon) $4.50
Smoked Salmon $4.50
Maguro (Tuna) $4.75
Hamachi (Yellow Tail) $4.75
Ikura (Salmon Roe) $4.75
Hotategai (Scallop) $5.00
Butterfish $5.00
King Salmon $5.25
Hamachi Belly $5.25
Albacore $5.25
Blue Fin Tuna $5.50
Shima Aji (Jackfish) $5.75
Red Snapper $5.75
Botanebi $6.75
Raw with Fried Head
Chu Toro (Medium Toro) $7.75
King Crab $8.75
Kinme Dai $8.25
Uni $7.75
Toro $9.50
Seared Scallop $6.50
Seared King Salmon $6.25
Seared Albacore $6.25
Seared Toro $10.50
Seared King Crab Uni $12.50

Rolls, Hand Rolls or Naruto(+$3)
California Roll $6.50
Salmon Roll $8.00
(Seaweed Outside)
Yellow Tail Roll $8.00
(Seaweed Outside)
Boston Roll $8.00
Inside: Cooked Ebi, Lettuce, Mayo
Philadelphia Roll $8.00
Inside: Fresh Salmon, Cream Cheese
Calamari Tempura roll $8.00
Outside: Masago Inside: Tempura Calamari, Cucumber
Tuna Roll $9.00
(Seaweed Outside)
Alaska Roll $9.00
Inside: Salmon, Avocado and Cucumber
Spicy Salmon Roll $9.00
(Rice Outside)
Eel Cucumber or Avocado Roll $9.50
(Rice Outside)
Salmon Skin Cucumber roll $10.00
Recommend as Hand Roll
Spicy Yellow Tail Roll $10.00
Ebi (Shrimp) Tempura Roll $10.50
Outside: Masago, Eel Sauce Inside: Ebi Tempura, Avocado, Cucumber
Dragon Roll $13.00
Outside: Avocado, Eel Sauce Inside: Eel Cucumber
Spicy Scallops Roll $13.00
(Rice Outside)
Seared Spicy Scallops Roll $15.00
Recommend as Hand Roll (Rice Outside)
Toasted Crab Roll $17.00
Inside: Toasted Spicy King Crab, Snow Crab and Kani
King Crab Avocado Roll $20.00
(Rice Outside)
Toro Scallion Roll $12.50
(Seaweed Outside)
Spicy Toro & Tempura FLakes Roll $15.50
(Rice Outside)

Special Rolls
Green River $8.00
Inside: Avocado, Cucumber, Asparagus
Pearl $9.50
Outside: Seaweed, Eel Sauce Inside: Tempura Oyster, Cucumber, Scallions, Masago
Volcano $9.50
Outside: Masago Inside: Fried Calamari, Avocado, Spicy Sauce
Mexican $10.00
Inside: Spicy Salmon and Tempura Flakes
Suzuki $10.50
Outside: Masago Inside: Cooked Striped Bass, Tempura Flakes, Scallion, Spicy Sauce
X’Mas $10.50
Outside: Masago, Spicy Sauce Inside: Tuna, Salmon, Avocado, Cucumber
Poke $10.50
Outside: Seaweed Inside: Tuna, Salmon, White Fish, Avocado, Cucumber, Masago
Dynamite $11.00
Outside: Masago Inside: Spicy Yellow Tail, Avocado, Tempura Flakes
Golden Dragon $11.50
Outside: Salmon, Spicy Sauce Inside: Crab Meat, Avocado, Cucumber
Golden $11.50
Outside: Masago, Eel Sauce Inside: Eel, Shrimp Tempura, Avocado, Cucumber
Good Time $12.50
Outside: Salmon, Spicy Sauce Inside: Asparagus, Avocado
Manhattan $12.50
Outside: Tuna, Salmon with Spicy Sauce Inside: Crab Meat, Avocado, Cucumber
Red Dragon $13.50
Outside: Tuna, Spicy sauce Inside: Salmon, Tempura Flakes
Crazy Dragon $13.50
Outside: Eel, Avocado Inside: Crab Meat, Avocado
Sunny $13.50
Outside: Salmon, Spicy Sauce Inside: Salmon Tempura
Kanikama $13.50
Outside: Salmon Inside: Spicy Kani
Kamikaze $13.50
Outside: Avocado Inside: Spicy Tuna, Wasabi Mayo
Spicy Spider $14.50
Outside: Masago Inside: Tempura Soft Shell Crab, Spicy Tuna, Avocado, Cucumber
Dancing $14.50
Outside: Eel, Avocado Inside: Cream Cheese, Avocado
Flying Eel $14.50
Outside: Eel, Bonito Flakes Inside: Fried Calamari, Avocado, Cucumber
Rainbow $15.00
Outside: Tuna, Salmon, Y.T., Fluke with Spicy Sauce Inside: Crab Meat, Cucumber, Avocado
Ninja $16.00
Outside: Spicy Tuna Inside: Eel, Avocado
Truffle $16.00
Outside: Tempura Flakes Inside: Spicy Truffle Sauce, Salmon
Kaze $17.00
Crispy Roll, Smoked Salmon, Mozzarella Cheese, Avocado and Served Over a Homemade Spicy Sauce
Lobster $17.00
Delicious, Deep Fried Lobster and Fresh Mango Inside, Served with a Homemade Yuzu Sauce
Hurricane $17.00
Outside: Seaweed Inside: Spicy Toro, Oshinko
Kimono $17.00
Outside: Avocado, Flakes Inside: Spicy Yellowtail, Oshinko
Ebi Hemp $18.00
Outside: Spicy Tuna Inside: Ebi Temp, Avocado, Cucumber
Hot Night $18.00
Outside: Spicy Yellowtail, Jalapenos, Black Eggs Inside: Ebi Temp, Cucumber
Rock'n Roll
Outside: Spicy Tuna Inside: Lightly Fried, Spicy Kani, Tobiko, Avocado, Negi
VIP $20.00
Outside: Spicy Salmon Truffle, Tempura Flakes Inside: Spicy Kani
Larly $23.00
Outside: Seared Spicy Scallop, Negi Inside: Eel, Avocado
Barna $23.00
Outside: Toasted Crab, Negi Inside: Spicy Kani, Avocado, Tempura Flakes

Platters & Combinations (No Substitutions Please)
Sushi Regular $35.00
Chef’s Choice: 8 Different Pieces of Sushi with Tuna Roll
Sushi Special $48.00
Chef’s Choice, Premium Fish with Scallop 8 Different Pieces of Sushi with Tuna Roll
Sashimi Regular $41.00
Chef’s Choice, 8 Different Kinds of Sashimi, 2 Pieces of Each
Sashimi Special $60.00
Chef’s Choice, Premium Fish with Scallop 8 Different Kinds of Sashimi, 2 Pieces of Each
Sushi & Sashimi Combo $48.00
Chef’s Choice: 5 Pieces of Sushi, 5 Types of Sashimi and Tuna Roll
Triple Spicy $26.00
3 Maki or Hand Roll: 1 Spicy Tuna, 1 Spicy Salmon, 1 Spicy Yellow Tail
Unagi Don $32.00
Broiled and Glazed Eel with our Homemade Eel Sauce, Served Over Rice
Sake Don $33.00
Raw Salmon Served Over Rice
Tekka Don $35.00
Raw Tuna Served Over Rice
Fish Lover's Special $43.00
5 Pieces of Tuna, 5 Pieces of Yellow Tail and an Alaska Roll

Poke Japanese Restaurant Details

From the business
Identifies as Asian-owned

Service options
Outdoor seating
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Popular for
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating
Assistive hearing loop

Offerings
Healthy options
Small plates
Vegetarian options

Dining options
Dinner
Counter service
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Bar onsite
Gender-neutral restroom
Restroom

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy
Trendy

Crowd
Family-friendly

Planning
Usually a wait
Accepts reservations

Payments
Cash-only

Children
Kids' menu

Pets
Dogs allowed outside

Poke Japanese Restaurant Photos

Poke Japanese Restaurant Location

Poke Japanese Restaurant

New York New York County New York East 85th Street

343 E 85th St, New York, NY 10028, USA

Poke Japanese Restaurant Reviews

An average rating of ★4.3 from 290 user reviews.

BYOBcashpricesrollstunabottlewinetrufflesalmonikura sushi

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

I used to live a few doors down from the restaurant, and every time I walked past it, it was always packed. I’m glad that I finally came and give it a try.For appetizers, I got a crispy calamari. It came super quick, within 5 minutes after I placed my orders. The batter was light and crispy. The calamari was tender. However, the sauce paired with it was a bit strange. It was the ginger dressing you’d get when you go to a regular Japanese restaurant, the kind on top of the salad. It didn’t go very well with the calamari.I also ordered an ikura sushi and a scallop sushi. Both were nice. The scallop was soft and tender, but the natural sweetness was a bit too mild. The ikura was nice and not too salty. The rice was slightly warm, but not sour enough. In addition, the rice was falling apart when I picked it up with my chopsticks.I also got a “good time” roll and a Manhattan roll. I forgot which was which, but they were very similar. One had tuna and salmon on the outside, and imitation crab meat avocado and cucumber on the inside. The other one had salmon slices on the outside, and avocado and asparagus on the inside. They were both okay, but a bit boring flavor wise. The texture contrast was nice though.Lastly, I didn’t know they were cash only. They should probably put a big sign on the outside. Good thing I did get enough cash on me.The service was nice and the server was friendly. I accidentally left too much cash in the tray, and he came after me to return my money. I really appreciate that!Overall, it was a nice Japanese restaurant. I just thought the food would be better.
August 09 · Bradley C
The experience was very nice. The food was tasty and the service was friendly and efficient. Overall the evening was OK. This place is cash only which is fine. My only problem is compared to the offering, it is overpriced.
June 27 · Rita Seto - Lai
Love this place! Great for a cute date night or catching up with friends. Always vibrant atmosphere and great service. Food is extremely tasty, some of the best sushi rolls and apps in the area! Especially for the price.
August 23 · Sara Veselinovic
Everything was amazing except for the fried green tea icecream. Quick service, fun atmosphere and fresh food with interesting twists. 10/10 would come back multiple times but skip the dessert here.
September 05 · Michelle Han
Great BYOB, cash only spot for sushi. No reservations but didn't have any trouble getting a table around 630pm on a week night. Delicious sushi. The truffle sushi was very delicious and light. If you like truffle, it's worth a try. They let us sit there for a nice long time too which I really appreciated.
October 23 · Joanie A